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The Link Between Middle Class Drug Use and Domestic Violence

Drug use can sometimes increase the likelihood of domestic violence. In the middle class, the co-occurrence of substance abuse and domestic violence can sometimes be even more prevalent. Learn more about the link between drug use in middle class professionals and domestic violence.

Substance Abuse is a Class Issue

There is a clear association between social economic class and substance abuse, with several studies demonstrating the impact that poverty, education, and employment has on drug and alcohol use. The rates of alcohol and drug use actually rise with increased levels of income and education.¹ According to the Gallup Poll and a report published by the independent Social Metrics Commission, middle-class people consume more alcohol and illegal drugs than those living below the poverty line.2-3 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reports a similar trend, with higher income Americans showing the greatest increase in heroin use since 2002.4

Although the prevalence of alcohol and drug abuse may be highest in specific subpopulations, its effects are felt throughout the community. This can be seen in London, where the skyrocketing use of cocaine by middle class professionals may have impacts on a recent spike in violence.5 Or here in the United States, where the current opioid epidemic that has been felt from coast-to-coast may be linked to a national rise in homicides, as reported in a study published by the US Justice Department-affiliated National Institute for Justice.6 But as the media headlines tend to focus on the victims of drug-related street crimes, the identity of those most vulnerable to substance abuse-related violence remains under the radar. The sad truth is that the individuals most prone to harm are those who are closest to the substance abusers, namely their spouses and domestic partners.10% of adults in the US identify as being in recovery from drug or alcohol abuse.Substance abuse isn’t subjective and no one has to start recovery alone. See if you need help today.TAKE QUIZ

Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse are Linked

There is an intimate connection between drug use and domestic violence. One is often a symptom of the other, and in many cases, they occur simultaneously. Statistics from the American Society of Addiction Medicine reveal that substance abuse is involved in 40-60% of all incidents of intimate partner violence.7 And according to the American Psychological Association, a dependence on drugs or alcohol increases both your risk of experiencing domestic violence and your chances of becoming an abusive partner.8

Evidence suggests that substance abuse, particularly with alcohol and stimulants (such as cocaine and methamphetamines), plays an important role in domestic violence by promoting preexisting abusive patterns and exacerbating violent behavior.9-10 On the other hand, victims of domestic violence are much more likely to turn to alcohol and drugs, often as an escape from the physical and emotional abuse that they face. Whether you are the perpetrator or victim of domestic violence, drugs and alcohol are never a suitable form of therapy. Rather than provide you with comfort and relief, substance abuse will instead lead to increased addiction and the escalation of domestic violence.

If you are a victim of domestic violence or struggling with a substance use disorder, there are many sources of help available. Make it your priority to get out of a dangerous situation by seeking assistance or calling one of the many available hotlines, such as The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE). It is then imperative to treat any struggles with substance abuse by seeking help at a substance abuse treatment center.

Sources:

Galea, S., Ahern, J., Tracy, M., & Vlahov, D. (2007). Neighborhood Income and Income Distribution and the Use of Cigarettes, Alcohol, and Marijuana. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 32(6), S195–202.

Florida Cities

Just Believe Recovery is a drug And alcohol rehab facility located in Jensen Beach, Florida. We provide a full continuum of care including detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization program and an intensive outpatient program. You can be sure that you or your loved one will be provided with the utmost compassionate care and the highest level of service possible.

Our mission is to provide each person that enters our program with the highest level of personalized treatment. We will consistently show love and compassion while using direct, respectful, honest communication.

Choosing a detox program is an important first step toward recovery from substance abuse. Though rehabilitation programs are frequently 30 to 90 days long, the first part of all of them is detox. During detox, a doctor or nurse helps you manage the symptoms of withdrawal that occur when you stop taking drugs or alcohol.

Often rehab programs combine detox with weeks or months of therapy, classes, and recovery. However, lengthy rehab programs are not possible for everyone. They require a significant investment of money and time. For those who have family responsibilities or a demanding job, a short detox program may be the most feasible choice.

If you are struggling with addiction, contact Just Believe Detox to get treatment and help today. The professionals at Just Believe will help you learn how to live a healthy and productive life, regardless of your addictive personality. They can help you cope with the stresses of life and channel your personality traits into positive behaviors.

Florida rehab and Recovery is a drug And alcohol rehab facility located in Jensen Beach, Florida. We provide a full continuum of care including detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization program and an intensive outpatient program. You can be sure that you or your loved one will be provided with the utmost compassionate care and the highest level of service possible.

Our mission is to provide each person that enters our program with the highest level of personalized treatment. We will consistently show love and compassion while using direct, respectful, honest communication.

We employ a full clinical staff that are highly experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to addiction and mental illness. Our staff will develop plans and tailor them to our client’s needs while maintaining emotional issues.

We Believe in the importance of involving the client’s family in the recovery process. We view the family as an essential component of a client’s ongoing recovery and provide education about chemical dependence.

Choosing a Port St Lucie detox program is an important first step toward recovery from substance abuse. Though rehabilitation programs are frequently 30 to 90 days long, the first part of all of them is detox. During detox, a doctor or nurse helps you manage the symptoms of withdrawal that occur when you stop taking drugs or alcohol.